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Headway shows its support for the publication of the National Carers Strategy

27 Jun 2012

Carers, and organisations that support them, lobby TDs and Senators, for more recognition of the role of Family Carers

On Wednesday 20th June, Headway took part in a Carers lobby session for TDs and Senators in Leinster House. This was organised by the Care Alliance of Ireland, of which Headway is a member. Senator Jillian Van Turnhout kindly facilitated the event. The main focus of the day, was to ask members of the Oireachtas to pledge their support for the timely publication of the first ever National Carer Strategy, which the government has committed to - see here for the latest on this.

TDs and Senators pledge their support for the National Carers Strategy

Speakers also focused on the need to introduce regulation on providers who supply home care services. In addition, they made the case for Family Carers to be seen as partners in health and social care by being given access to an assessment process. This would would allow family carers to identify their needs, be given information and advice, explore difficulties they may experience, and make contingency plans if they are ill or are unable to continue to provide care. For a more detailed briefing on Carer Assessments, you can click here to read a full position paper which the Care Alliance of Ireland have just released.

Carers and Support Organisation Staff outside Leinster House 20th June 2012

Frances Mansfield, who has been caring for her husband, Pat, since his accident in 2008, spoke about her experiences as a family carer, and what additional supports she would like to see for people in her position. Frances attends Headway's Dublin Family Member Support Group.